Paros

Cosmopolitan, Youthful and Alternative

Although Paros is one of the first islands that first received the blast of the lobby of celebrities and then the tourist industry, it has managed to keep the Cycladic colours and the picturesque of the Aegean landscape almost unchanged. This combined with the beautiful beaches, the many choices for entertainment offered and the good tourist infrastructure available, Paros is ranked among the most popular summer destinations. The truth is that in Paros you can find everything. The island offers itself generously, reserving surprises that never end.

What to see

Parikia and Naoussa are the largest villages on the island. They are built in the style or Cycladic architecture and have important tourist infrastructure. They therefore attract scores of visitors. On the other hand in the mainland of Paros you will come across picturesque little villages such as Lefkes and Prodromos as well as coastal hamlets such as Piso Livadi, Dryos, Alyki for quieter atmosphere.

Parikia

The harbour and Parikia, the amazing white town constitute the commercial centre of the island, bustling with life and tourists. The village is full of bars and hotels, hosting mainly international visitors, in contrast to Naoussa which is the favourite place of domestic visitors.

The Church of Virgin Ekatontapyliani (the church with 100 doors)

Within a short walking distance from the port of Parikia it is the oldest Byzantine church in the Aegean founded 17 centuries ago by Saint Helena.

Naoussa

10 km north-east of Parikia, it is one of the most picturesque villages in the Cyclades. Its port is famous for its bars and tavernas. It is worth to visit the Venetian 15th century castle standing there.

Lefkes

This mountain village of Paros offers afternoon strolls in the picturesque alleys and through the Byzantine main street which leads to the local cafe. Admire the atmosphere in the square, the school building, the Museum of Folk Culture of Aegean, the wonderful Lefkes Village hotel and of course the panoramic view of the island.

Dryos

A unique picturesque miniature fishing village not at all busy like the other places in Paros. It offers a small quiet beach, picturesque taverns and several rooms with a view of the sea.

Prodromos

Meridian village, the most impressive feature of which being the domed gateway which acts as entrance to this picturesque village.

The Ancient Cemetery

It is an area of special historic interest. The most important finding was the mass graves (“polyandrion”) of the geometric period, which is the only one found in the Aegean. The site operates as an archaeological park and in the main hall visitors can admire many important exhibits.

What to do

Paros is one of the most favourite islands of surfers, since a World Cup race takes place there every year. Good beaches for surfing and kite surfing are: Santa Maria, Golden Beach and Pounta.

Other famous beaches are

Kolymbithres where the unusual shape of the rock forms tiny harbours.Monastery: Ideal for families as it has shallow waters and is protected against strong northern windsSanta Maria: golden sand, crystal clear waters and a beach bar with good carefully selected musicPounta: A meeting point for the younger ages because of its beach bar. Visit the mini bazaar of the beach with a large variety of ethnic accessories.Laggeri: the virgin sand dunes with small trees on them shelter those who prefer a quiet atmosphere.Voutakos: with a view of Antiparos gathers nudists for years .Kalogeros: A Relatively unknown beach in the direction of Santa Maria, which can be approached by a jeep with a little help by the locals.Agia Irini: Located south of Parikia, a sheltered beach with palm trees to give an exotic touch.